El Paso retirement homes for Catholic priests opened

Retired El Paso Catholic priests have a new place to call home, where they can socialize with other priests and mentor neighboring seminarians.

Leaders at the Catholic Diocese of El Paso had an open house Thursday afternoon at the Casitas San Mateo, located at the Pastoral Center off North Loop in the Lower Valley.

"We have built Casitas for our priests who have been walking with Jesus, bearing the trials and difficulties of their people, serving them as good shepherds ... and now they come to the evening of their life and they seek his presence here," said Bishop Mark J. Seitz, in his blessing of the Casitas.

The first phase of the retirement facility consists of eight small homes, which are ready to be moved into and cost an estimated $1.2 million. Two retired priests have already moved into two 1,100-square-foot homes.

"It's been a long time coming, at least five years from when we started talking about it and seeing the plans to actually constructing it," said Pat Fierro, chancellor. "Our plan is to build 12 more."

Fierro said the diocese has 14 retired priests, many of whom live with families, friends or on their own in apartments. Having them close to the pastoral center and the seminary will be beneficial, Fierro said.

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"It will be nice to have a community just for our retired priests. A lot of people could learn from our retired priests and we'll be able to invite them to the pastoral center or they can counsel seminarians — it's a win-win for everybody," she said.

Jorge Vergen, executive director of Catholic Properties, said phase two will consist of an assisted living facility, expected to cost $2.5 million.

Money have to be raised first through fundraisers and donations to the priest retirement fund.

(Victor Calzada / El Paso Times)

"As soon as we raise $1.5 million, we can start construction," he said.

Diocese officials currently are planning a dinner and dance to benefit Casitas on April 24 at Sunland Park Racetrack & Casino. Tickets are $100.

The third phase, which officials hope will be completed by 2015, will consist of a support facility that would include a kitchen, dining area, recreation area and chapel.

The Rev. Raul Trigueros, of St. Mark's Catholic Church, enjoyed touring the homes.

"It's a great idea for priests who are retired. It's a way for priests to be able to support themselves, be around other priests and have their celebrations," he said.